Blizzards, coastal storms, and flooding are a fact of life for residents of Boston. We have information to help you before, during, and after a natural disaster. Please note: if you're in the middle of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

Dealing with natural disasters
Need help now?
If you're experiencing an emergency, please dial 9-1-1. If you are dealing with a non-emergency situation in the City of Boston, please contact BOS:311.
Please contact your utility company to report any outages. You can also call 3-1-1 with any concerns or questions.
Flooding
Snowstorms
You can find more tips about dealing with snow in the City through our Winter in Boston guide:
Be aware of what to do before, during, and after a snowstorm.
We don't allow parking on certain roads during declared emergencies.
Crews have a tough time reaching trash barrels and recycling carts.
Preparing for a hurricane
Learn about what actions to take when you receive a Hurricane Watch or Hurricane Warning.
Maps
Cold and heat
When you know severely cold weather is coming, remember to take steps to prepare:
- Take caution when using portable heating devices like space heaters.
- Cover exposed skin and watch out for frostbite.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe on your car is clear of snow, as well as your house's heater vent.
- To prepare for power outages, stock up on batteries, flashlights, and canned goods.
During periods of extreme heat, we'll declare a heat emergency and open community centers as cooling centers.
- BCYF Community Centers become cooling centers during a heat emergency.
- Never leave children and pets alone in cars. Cars heat up quickly even if the windows are slightly open.
- Drink more water no matter how active you are.
- Adults and children should use sunscreen containing an SPF-15 or higher and wear protective, loose-fitting clothing.